Manchester United have learned Napoli are weighing up a move for in-form Monza star Gustavo Varela, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.

Varela is developing a reputation as one of the most promising strikers in Europe having sparkled for Serie A side Monza this season.

The 21-year-old is the top scorer in the Italian top flight having netted nine goals in 10 league appearances for Ivan Juric’s side.

Varela, who joined Monza from Benfica for a reported €2.5million (£2m) in July, has also scored two goals in the Coppa Italia this term.

His stunning form for Monza has led to him being called up by Portugal for the first time ahead of their Nations League fixtures later this month.

With Varela continuing to score goals at an incredible rate, United have been loosely linked with making a move for the forward.

The Athletic understands the Red Devils are keen to sign a new striker in January provided the right target becomes available.

United have found themselves short of attacking options after Benjamin Sesko was ruled out until January with a shin injury.

However, Italian newspaper Gazzetta understands Napoli are plotting their own move for Varela, who is tied to Monza until June 2030.

Napoli have endured a difficult season under head coach Massimiliano Allegri, whose position is believed to be under close scrutiny.

The Partenopei are currently 10th in Serie A having won just four of their 11 league games this term, losing four and drawing three.

Rasmus Hojlund has scored just three league goals in 2026-27 after joining Napoli from United on a permanent basis in the summer.

The Denmark international, 23, spent last season on loan at Napoli, scoring 16 goals in all competitions under then-manager Antonio Conte.

Reports: Carrick on the verge of United sack

United meanwhile have endured their own woes this term, with the Red Devils currently languishing in 18th place in the Premier League table.

Various publications understand manager Michael Carrick is poised to be sacked after presiding over a terrible run of form which has yielded three wins in 15 games.

BBC Sport claims technical director Jason Wilcox and CEO Omar Berrada are likely to recommend sacking Carrick in a meeting with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe on Wednesday.

Mauricio Pochettino, Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann have emerged as candidates to replace Carrick, should United officials decide a change is necessary.